Christmas in West Sussex
Christmas markets, Christmas lights and a lot of festive cheer
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West Sussex awaits! Whether you're here for our unspoilt coastline, our wealth of cultural delights and array of great things to do, our miles of footpaths and cycle routes or to soak up a warm West Sussex welcome at outstanding places to eat and drink, there's something memorable for everyone to enjoy. Let your adventures begin.
Discover Chichester, the vibrant cathedral city and county capital of West Sussex. Immerse yourself in rich history with impressive Roman ruins and outstanding culture or explore the stunning countryside and rolling South Downs. Enjoy endless walking and cycling opportunities, incredible events and adventures at Goodwood, charming towns and villages like Midhurst and Petworth, and the sparkling Sussex coast, home to beautiful beaches like West Wittering, East Wittering, Bracklesham Bay and Selsey.
Just over an hour from London and just under an hour from London Gatwick Airport, our stunning, sunny corner of Sussex is closer than you think!
The Great Sussex Way is here to help you find GREAT things to do in Chichester and the the surrounding area, read on for more ideas…
The South Downs National Park is one of the top West Sussex attractions encompassing majestic rolling hills, heathland, rivers, and more woodland that any other national park in England or Wales – including some of the most ancient forests in the country - making it a perfect playground for those who love the outdoors, whether that’s on two feet or on a bike. As well as epic walking trails including The South Downs Way, here you’ll find important habitats for wildlife, including rare species like the Adonis and Chalkhill Blue Butterflies.
One of the South Coast’s best loved beaches, once you’ve experienced the golden sands of West Wittering beach between your toes it’s easy to see why. Long stretches of soft sand and shallow water make it perfect for families, while also offering an abundance of opportunities for adrenaline seekers to enjoy the waves. Often extremely busy in summer (we recommend booking parking to avoid disappointment), quieter spots can be found at neighbouring East Wittering or a little further along the coast at Selsey.
Goodwood, for many, is a name synonymous with incredible events like the Festival of Speed, the Qatar Goodwood Festival or the Goodwood Revival, which draw visitors from across the globe. The sporting country estate which covers 12,000 acres of stunning Sussex countryside is also home to a stylish Hotel and Spa, unforgettable dining experiences, golf courses, and the opportunity for high-energy adventures in the air, on the Motor Circuit and more.
Just ten miles from Chichester, discover almost a thousand years of history at Arundel Castle. A captivating day out with a huge amount original features to explore including the Norman Keep, medieval Gatehouse and the 14th Century Catholic Fitzalan Chapel, there's a huge amount to see, plus action-packed events and the annual floral celebrations each spring as the Tulip Festival and Allium Extravaganza surround the castle with vivid swathes of colour.
Christmas markets, Christmas lights and a lot of festive cheer
Walking routes for everyone to enjoy
Follow this trail to see our most awesome trees
That classic combination for experiencing the best of West Sussex
Christmas shopping, Sussex style
Leafy walks to foraging, explore the best of this beautiful season
An enthralling, charming and magical tale that tells the true story of Father Christmas. For…
Celebrated for her luminous brushwork and moving depictions of women's lives, Walker transforms…
Enjoy a delicious Christmas Afternoon Tea at The Walled Garden. Prepared by our team of pastry chefs…
A Christmas Enchantment This Christmas, the National Trust’s Petworth House and…
Gathered around our beautiful Bösendorfer grand piano, listen to the stunning voices of La Diva…
Mixed exhibition showcasing multi disciplined artists supporting Stone Pillow
Through painting, sculpture, installation and moving image, the exhibition deals with prescient…
Step inside Stansted House this December, after the sun has set, and enjoy an evening tour of the…
Explore the South Downs Way through art The new Every Step of the Way exhibition explores the South…
Father Christmas Boat Trips on Chichester Canal Join Santa on a boat trip on Chichester Canal…
Come and enjoy a mince pie, mulled wine and other warming treats aboard a Festive Boat Trip on…
The cheeky Christmas gonks have taken over The Novium Museum once again! One mischievous gonk has…
Fish and Chips Boat Trips at £28 per head with boats leaving on various December days at 1200…
For the past eighteen months local artist Oscar Romp has been Denmans Garden's Artist in…
Hurrah for Shippam's Come and discover the story behind one of Chichester's most iconic…
Jane Bown: Play Shadow at Newlands House Gallery Explore an intimate portrait of one of…
You're invited to immerse yourself in a world of light and colour this December as Chichester…
Explore the first major exhibition in over 25 years dedicated to Roger Fry as a painter. Known for…
Father Christmas had such a magical time in Chichester, he's bringing his Grotto (full of…
Bring your baby and enjoy a relaxed guided tour of Caroline Walker: Mothering with one of our…
Embark on a captivating guided journey through the night sky with renowned local astronomer Dr. John…
Come and join Wilfrid the Seal as he celebrates his very first Christmas at Chichester…
From the award-winning Stiles and Drewe (The Billy Goats Gruff, Honk!, Half a Sixpence) comes The…
For this Thursday Late, we'll be joined by La Diva — the award-winning chamber choir from Bishop…
Join Tinwood Estate this December for an exclusive evening of fine food and wine. The chefs will…
Image: Joanna Kaczorowska